FAQ
Q: What is a CSA?
A: A CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) is a way for the food buying public to create a relationship with a farm and to receive a weekly portion of produce. By making a financial commitment to a farm, people become members of the CSA.
Q: What is the name of the farm who works with the DUMBO/Vinegar Hill CSA?
A: Our produce comes from Sang Lee Farms of Peconic (North Fork), NY
Q: Is the produce organic?
A: Yes, Sang Lee Farms is a NOFA-NY Certified Organic Vegetable Farm.
Q: How was the farm connected with the CSA?
A: Just Food is the non-profit umbrella organization who matches qualified local farms with CSAs in NYC.
www.justfood.org
Q: Can I visit the farm?
A: Yes, we have a formal farm visit for the CSA twice a year and our farmers have a weekend farm stand which you can visit on your own. www.sangleefarms.com
Q: When is the CSA season?
A: Our 2010 season runs from June 9th through November 10th.
Q: Do you only have vegetable shares?
A: No, this year in addition to the vegetable share we also have fruit and cheese shares.
Q: Who provides the fruit?
A: The fruit shares come from Briermere Farms, also on Long Island. The fruits are blueberries, blackberries, peaches, pears, apples. www.briermere.com
Q: Who provides the cheese?
A: The cheese maker is award winning, Karen Catapano, www.catapanodairyfarm.com/press.htmThe cheeses are feta, chevre (herbed and plain) and after aging later in the season, cheddar and ricotta.
Q: What is the time and place of distribution?
A: Distribution is every Wednesday during the season. Our distribution is held in DUMBO in the courtyard of Phoenix House, 50 Jay Street. Use the Plymouth Street driveway entrance. Distribution runs from 5:00-7:30 PM.
Q: Do you deliver shares?
A: No, we don’t have the capability to make deliveries and our members find that seeing each other at the weekly distribution builds community.
Q: Do I have to be a member to participate in the CSA?
A: Yes, only prepaid members can participate in distribution. There are no on-site sales of the produce during the season.
Q: When do I sign up?
A: 2010 membership is now closed. New members, please visit us again or email us at core@dumbocsa.org to be added to the mailing list for next years season. New membership is open on a first come first serve basis.
Q: What is the cost of a share for 2010?
A: Please contact us for pricing information on the 2010 season.
Q: Can I become a member for part of the season?
A: No, we only take members for the full six month season. However, you are welcome to find someone to split your share with you.
Q: How do I make a payment?
A: Please see our website during the new year enrollment period for information on check payment.
Q: Do I have to donate any time to be a member in the CSA?
A: Yes, every share needs to volunteer to help out at one distributions during the six month season.
Q: If I work late or have children, do I still have to work at distribution?
A: Yes, we have a late shift from 6-8 PM for people who can’t leave work early. If your schedule is not flexible at all we can arrange for other volunteer opportunities. You can bring your children to distribution with you.
Q: What happens if I’m on vacation or can’t get to distribution one week?
A: You can ask a friend/neighbor to pick up your share or give it away. If no one comes to pick up your share it is donated to Phoenix House and used in their residential cafeteria.
Q: Are there any events or activities associated with the CSA?
A: Members volunteer to plan get togethers, food demos and the farm visits. We always welcome new ideas and volunteers for other activities.
Q: What if there is a drought or flooding and the farm can’t produce the quantity or quality of vegetables it normally does?
A: By becoming a member of the CSA you assume the risk of organic farming. Our farmers are highly experienced and will do everything they can to make sure we have the best possible produce no matter the circumstances.
